Latest Blogs

Groundstory is a cross-sectoral effort to identify and address the effects of gentrification on the arts in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, and across Canada through a deep commitment to shared learning online.

Facilitated by ArtsPond with generous funding from Ontario Trillium Foundation, upcoming activities include Round the Block public roundtables in Toronto (May 3) and Hamilton (May 7). At these free events, vulnerable arts and culture workers impacted by the lack or loss of affordable and accessible spaces and housing are invited to share their perspectives in an open community dialogue. Learn More

Ontarians for the Arts

Ontarians for the Arts is an inclusive non-partisan movement intent on promoting the benefits of the arts in every city, community and reserve.

A discussion paper was developed in consultation with leaders from across Ontario to encourage dialogue on a range of relevant issues with various stakeholders in the arts and culture sector, including everyday Ontarians and politicians of every stripe. The final version was released in February.

Arts Days Across Ontario: In the lead-up to the provincial election on June 7, Ontarians for the Arts will engage with as many MPPs and Candidates as possible, in as many ridings as possible. Click here to learn more.

Monitoring and Evaluation in Art for Social Change

This toolkit is for anyone interested in evaluating a community-based health promotion or social equity initiative, whether you are a member of a community organization, an artist, a community organizer, an advocate, an activist, a health promotion practitioner, a community development planner, a funder, or a researcher. Click here to learn more.

OAAG also submitted written budget recommendations addressing three common financial concerns that members shared with them. OAAG asked the Provincial Government to:

Reaffirm the intrinsic value of the arts by adequately funding key agencies such as Ontario Arts Council, and the Ontario Trillium Foundation;

Develop a long-term infrastructure strategy that invests in cultural facilities; and

Financially support the effort to make the arts accessible to all people across Ontario. Learn More

New Tax Sub-Class For Creative Co-Location Facilities

On February 12, Toronto City Council approved the creation of a new property tax sub-class for "creative co-location facilities" which will mean that eligible art and cultural hubs will have their property taxes reduced by 50%. The change will not only impact Torontonians but has the potential to set a precedent for other cities across Ontario and the country.Learn More

Need help with the appraisal of donated work? Are you familiar with tax rules and advantages for donors of artwork? Presented by OAAG and ADAC for collection managers and museum professionals, this is a how-to manual for obtaining a monetary appraisal. Learn More

Social Assistance Rules Change to Better Support Ontario Artists

On December 13, 2017, the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) announced that, effective that day, arts grants are exempt as income and assets in both ODSP and OW. This means that artists who are on OW or ODSP and receive an arts grant will no longer have the money deducted from their monthly benefits, and will not have to risk becoming ineligible for continuing support from these programs. Learn More

The exhibit, All in This Together will be available to be seen at the Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum & Community Centre now through April 28th! Explore the atmosphere and experiences of our community during war time. Included in the exhibit, the “Dear Sadie” exhibit – on loan from the Archives of Ontario.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

1. Only one request (submission, event, announcement, etc...) will be accepted per email.
2. The event’s website and contact information needs to be on EVERY submission.
3. Provide precise dates and be specific for ongoing events. For example: “YorkSlam Poetry is on the 4th Wednesday of each month.” Mark dates as such: January 28 (2015), February 25 (2015), etc.
4. If your event is closed on a particular day during its run, please indicate the date.
5. York Region Arts Council retains the right to edit submissions for length and suitability. If you have questions contact the YRAC via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (905) 726-3278.
6. Provide your website/event URL so that users can purchase or reserve tickets.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

1. Only one request (submission, event, announcement, etc...) will be accepted per email.
2. The event’s website and contact information needs to be on EVERY submission.
3. Provide precise dates and be specific for ongoing events. For example: “YorkSlam Poetry is on the 4th Wednesday of each month.” Mark dates as such: January 28 (2015), February 25 (2015), etc.
4. If your event is closed on a particular day during its run, please indicate the date.
5. For employment/residency opportunities and/or calls-for-submission please indicate a deadline for submission/entries.
6. York Region Arts Council retains the right to edit submissions for length and suitability. If you have questions contact the YRAC via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (905) 726-3278.
7. Provide your website/event URL so that users can purchase or reserve tickets.